Do I need a Makeup Artist License?
State MUA Licensing Laws
If you are wondering what your State Licensing Laws for Freelance and Salon Makeup Artists, and aren’t sure where to start, below is a guide to help you locate your Licensing Division and it’s regulations for working as a Paid Makeup Artist in these respective States. Each State has it’s Governing Authority linked and notes the type of licensing, if any, is required.
For those states with a “?” I am merely waiting on clarification from these particular States and will update once they respond.
Please Note; this is merely a guide as of June 15, 2023 for Freelancers and Salon Makeup Artists working for a fee. This does not include retail associates or production. Regulations are subject to change. It is your responsibilities to stay on top of these changes and work in accordance with your local laws.
Before you invest money in education and start collecting pretty certificates, the first step you should take is contacting your States Division of Licensing or Board to confirm that institution is accredited and meets the educational requirements for said license.
Alabama - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Alaska - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Arizona - No License is required
Arkansas - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
California - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Colorado - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Connecticut - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Delaware - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Florida - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Georgia - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Hawaii - Beauty Operator License
Idaho - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Illinois - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Indiana - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Iowa - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Kansas - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Kentucky - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Louisiana - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Maine - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Maryland - No License Required
Massachusetts - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Michigan - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Minnesota - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Mississippi - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Missouri - MS Licensing Laws are unclear and their Board is unable to provide guidance, contact an attorney to clarify for you.
Montana - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Nebraska - No license required
Nevada - Makeup Artist License
New Hampshire - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
New Jersey - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
New Mexico - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
New York - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
North Carolina - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
North Dakota - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Ohio - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Oklahoma - Cosmetician License
Oregon - ? , Plus a Freelance License if working Freelance.
Pennsylvania - Cosmetology License Required
Rhode Island - No License Required
South Carolina - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
South Dakota - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Tennessee - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Texas - ?
Utah - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Vermont - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Virginia - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Washington - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
West Virginia - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Wisconsin - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
Wyoming - Cosmetology or Aesthetics License
This page is for informational purposes only and is not to replace legal advice.
